Residents in North Tyneside are invited to have their say on proposed changes to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision across the borough.
Proposals announced yesterday (2 September) could improve and expand the support available across the borough.
In partnership with school leaders and governors, the consultation includes key proposals to increase and enhance the provision and support available in schools across North Tyneside.
Key proposals include:
- Establishing a new 12-place Additionally Resourced Provision (ARP) at Percy Main Primary School
- Establishing a new 12-place Special Education Needs Unit at Waterville Primary School
- Closing the existing 5-place ARP at Whitley Lodge Primary School
- Expanding the age range at Silverdale Special School to support children aged 4 to 16 years
These changes are planned to take effect this academic year and are part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every child has the best possible start in life.
Councillor Steven Phillips, Cabinet Member for Education, Inclusion, Employment and Skills at North Tyneside Council said: “Our consultation launch today is a real milestone in meeting the ambitions we so often speak about for our children and young people with SEND.
“We know that there are currently gaps in areas of the borough and our teams have worked closely with schools to increase the provision available to get the right support in place as early as possible for our young people and their families.
“This is only the first stage of our plans and we’re know that there are still areas to develop, but it’s a positive step in the right direction and we welcome all feedback.”
Today’s announcement is the first stage of a journey to increase SEND places even further in North Tyneside, with a focus on getting the right provision in place everywhere it’s needed.
The improvements aim to provide high-quality, inclusive education in settings that are better equipped to meet the individual needs of children with SEND.
Residents are encouraged to share their views by completing a short online questionnaire before Sunday 5 October. Community feedback will play a key role in shaping the final plans.